Participation in Artisanal Fisheries Management for Improved Livelihoods in West Africa

Book excerpt: This study aims to derive and disseminate lessons learned on fisher participation in fisheries management as well as ways of supporting livelihoods through responsible fisheries management. It is intended primarily for government staff, non-governmental organizations and staff in other agencies working on artisanal fisheries management and poverty alleviation in developing countries. The study is based on ten case studies in four West African countries. The analysis focuses primarily on three topics: the role of artisanal fishers and government in marine fisheries management; issues and constraints in existing marine fisheries management; and the effect of marine fisheries management on artisanal fisheries' livelihoods